Job Interviews two years later

I have been out of work for over two years and have been looking for eight months. No luck. I have put on my resume that my end date was 1/2017 due to that was when they removed me from my job due to FMLA. I actually stopped working 9/2016. Now when applying I use the date 1/2017 but also state I have been out due to a family medical issue. I have not been approached on what by anyone yet. But I have recently been told by a recruiting agency that I should state that I was out due to a medical issue for me and not give the exact reason. He stated too many use that family medical excuse when there are other reasons. I really need to get back to work due to monetary issues and it being over two years. I am hoping for advice on how to overcome the time away and what to say when talking to companies. Thank you.

1 Comment

Cancer and Careers Staff Comment:

Hi Elizabeth,

Thanks for writing to us. Although I understand that a prolonged job search can be frustrating, you are thinking about and asking important questions as you continue the process.

Due to the way the work world has changed since the 2008 recession, resume gaps are more common and not necessarily a red flag – but it’s important to be prepared to answer any queries that may arise. One method we 've found successful for fielding questions regarding gaps in employment is called “The Swivel”, which addresses a question asked by an interviewer and then redirects the conversation towards your actual goals and skillset for the job. For example, saying “There was a family situation that I had to attend to, but it’s been resolved and I’m fully prepared to meet the responsibilities of this job. Let me tell you how…” is perfectly acceptable. It answers the question of why there is a gap, and no one would argue with the fact that cancer can be considered “a family situation.” But more importantly, it moves the conversation towards the opportunity at hand, thus leaving the interview to move forward from there. Practicing your response is key, so that you feel comfortable when answering. It’s important to remind yourself of your many accomplishments, none of which should be overshadowed by taking time off. For more info on “The Swivel”: https://www.cancerandcareers.org/en/looking-for-work/interviewing/the-swivel. We also have strategies for dealing with a resume gap: https://www.cancerandcareers.org/en/looking-for-work/resume-cover-letter/resume-gap.

It’s also essential remember that in general you are under no legal obligation to disclose your medical history and/or any medical conditions to your prospective or current employer, but ultimately it’s a personal decision. However, if you need to access a reasonable accommodation you may have to disclose some information to show you’re entitled to it, but may choose not to disclose during the interview process and instead wait until you receive an offer to request an accommodation or even wait until you have started the job. For more information on disclosure, I recommend watching our webinar: https://www.cancerandcareers.org/en/community/videos/bwc/2017-webinar-online.

And you might think that if you weren’t working, you have nothing to show prospective employers — but that isn’t necessarily the case. Did you do any volunteering, take any online courses or attend conferences or anything else that would show you were using or building your skillset? If not, that’s completely okay. Focusing on your health was the most important thing to do—but it there anything you did/or can do now to help make yourself more marketable?